"Alisha and her firm were heaven sent! I liked them all, however, Ms Wood managed my case. And she was incredible. She is a true genius and had a strategy for my case that was both hard charging' and unexpected

I won when they dismissed the case. Thank You So Much!"

- A Real Avvo Review From avvo.com

Federal crimes require much more detailed care and thorough work than state crimes, as federal investigations tend to be drawn out and extremely methodical, leaving no stone unturned. At the Law Offices of Alisha A. Wood, we are committed to helping you fight your federal charges and get the best results possible from your case. Our expert staff is dedicated to your rights and ensuring that you are represented by a powerful and knowledgeable team.

Because the process for federal trials varies and may be more in depth on their end than many state trials would be, it is important to seek legal aid as soon as possible to give yourself the best chance for a successful case.

In the San Diego region, we most often see federal cases involving drug crimes, white-collar crimes and immigration violations. If your case falls outside of these categories, feel free to call our offices to learn about how we can help you specifically.

What is a Federal Crime?

It is difficult to categorize federal crime in few words, because over 100 offenses fall under this umbrella and give the United States government the ability to charge you under federal law.

Generally, an offense committed in violation of U.S. criminal code or one related to the property of the federal government may be tried in a federal court. These crimes can include, but are not limited to, terrorism, conspiracy, drug manufacturing, bank fraud, social security fraud, immigration law violations, accounting fraud and more.

Federal crimes result in much more severe penalties than those tried in California state courts; we recommend always having legal representation in these cases to ensure your rights remain protected.

Who Investigates Federal Crimes?

The FBI, DEA, ATF, Secret Service and other federal agencies investigate offenses committed against federal statutes. Sometimes, state law enforcement is asked to work with these groups for more thorough research.

Because federal agencies are involved in prosecution for federal crime, it is important to know your rights inside and out, or to seek representation that will support you through the case. You will need assistance fighting federal charges, and we are here to help.

DRUG CRIMES

Trafficking

Drug trafficking in California may be a little bit complicated when it comes to state laws and marijuana, but federal law does not spare any sympathy for any illicit drug activity, even in this state.

Drug trafficking is defined under federal law as an umbrella term for knowingly manufacturing, dispensing or distributing drugs, or knowingly having drugs in your possession with the intent to manufacture, dispense or distribute them.

The words knowingly and intent are what fuel a possible defense for federal drug trafficking charges. Possible defenses include a lack of evidence to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, illegal police conduct including an illegal search and no intent to traffic which may also be used if the person did not know the drugs were in his or her possession.

Penalties for drug trafficking vary depending on the amount of drugs in question, the defendant’s record, whether injury or death resulted from the crime and the type of drug in question. Minimum sentencing is typically 5 years in federal prison.

Marijuana: State vs. Federal

While California state law protects the rights of those in possession of and those who grow and distribute (with a legal medical license) marijuana, the federal Controlled Substances Act (CSA) categorizes the drug as a Schedule 1 hallucinogenic drug. The federal government does not accept marijuana for medical use and believes it has the ability to be abused and dangerous.

The CSA overrules California law; therefore, violating this act and selling, moving or gifting marijuana is a violation of federal and California law. This crime is punishable by a minimum of one year in federal prison and a $1,000 fine. Sentencing may reach up to 5 years in prison and up to $250,000 in fines.

Because marijuana sale and possession with intent to sell are considered “aggravated felonies”, these charges put undocumented citizens at risk for deportation.

WHITE COLLAR

When cases involving white-collar crimes rise to the federal level, there is typically already ample evidence against the defendant that the federal court has prepared. Therefore, it is important that you immediately seek legal defense if you are charged with a misdemeanor or felony white-collar crime.

“White-collar” categorizes crimes against another’s (in federal cases, the government’s) property or money. Crimes of this type include bribery, burglary, credit card fraud, embezzlement, extortion, forgery, healthcare fraud, theft, tax fraud, attaining stolen property, mail fraud, internet fraud, identity theft, insurance fraud theft and more. These crimes are investigated by federal agencies, and you can be assured they will conduct a very thorough investigation. Seeking an attorney is vital in your success and proper defense in these white-collar cases.

IMMIGRATION VIOLATIONS

Non-U.S. citizens who have been convicted of a federal crime can face consequences that may lead to deportation, if the crime committed was a “deportable crime.” Keep in mind, the penalty for these crimes is firmly deportation; length of time lived in the country, job status, family ties in the States, dependent children in the US and legal immigration status are irrelevant in these cases. Your defense will need to be thorough, intelligent and strong, and you will need the aid of a well-qualified, experienced attorney to help you avoid deportation, if possible.

SEEKING REPRESENTATION

When you choose your federal criminal defense attorney, it is important that you trust proven experience and a team who truly cares. At The Law Offices of Alisha A. Wood, we put our clients first and make it our priority to give you and your family the peace of mind that comes from freedom and positive results. If you or a loved one has been convicted of a federal crime, contact us today to learn how we can help you plan for a hopeful future.

Call us at (619) 356-2249.

Charged with a FELONY?

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JUVENILE CRIMES

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READ REVIEWSFROM OUR CLIENTs

I was looking at some pretty serious charges for my DUI, my first and no previous record, with the wonderful staff here I felt I was in the best of hands. I was assured that they would do the very best for me that they could. They followed through, in a BIG way. Instead of jail and the intense DUI programs, I am able to continue working and have been able to keep bettering myself through the course of my DUI. They saved me, literally from losing everything.

Posted by Kari on Apr 9

SAN DIEGO, CA

This firm was recommended to be by an attorney friend of mine and I am glad he did. Alisha Wood was able to reduce my DUI case to a drunk in public!! Even if my case did not end as favorable as it did I would still be glad that I hired this firm. They were truly nice people, very helpful and I felt that my money was well spent. I would recommend to any of my friends.

Posted by Rob on Mar 14

San Diego, CA

I didn’t really know where to turn at first after my arrest, after have meeting with 4 other attorneys in the area I was referred to Alisha A. Wood by a co-worker, my case didn’t look as though it would turn out very well. The firm displayed unparalleled knowledge and professionalism. Carmen, my case manager kept me completely informed and no matter who I talked to in the firm they were knowledgeable of my case I felt that they communicate well and worked very hard to get my more favorable outcome than I had thought for my case. Overall they’re awesome!